Jarred Samples
Director of Athletics
Before college, did you know what you wanted to do?
I had no idea what I wanted to do before college. It took me about year into my studies
to decide that I would like to teach and coach.
Where did you go to college and how did you achieve that? What was the application
process like? Any challenges?
I attended the University of Dallas. I was recruited to play basketball and golf.
I knew very little about UD initially. I read every piece of mail that the admissions
office sent. The head basketball coach and admissions team helped me navigate the
application process. They were very helpful.
What was your motivation during your college years?
I wanted to be successful because I knew how much my parents had sacrificed to send
me to college. I did not want to let them down.
What did you do after graduating from college?
After college, I took a job as an assistant basketball coach at Southwestern University
(TX). I was there for 5 years before accepting another assistant coaching position
at the University of Chicago. I was able to return to UD as the head basketball coach
in 2008.
What’s some advice you would give to your past self?
Ask for help. You don't have to figure out everything on your own. People want to
see you succeed and are willing to help.
After having been a first-generation student, how does it affect you today?
I'm proud of being a first-generation student. My undergraduate experience helped
me build successful habits that I still use today.